Benefits of CREST Awards

Improved GCSE grades and increased interest in continuing in STEM education and careers

Real-life experience of ‘being’ a scientist and working on STEM projects

CREST Award projects help to develop students’ skills in creativity, teamwork and time management

Students can use CREST to enhance their UCAS personal statements

Extra value from other activities, such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) and the Children’s University Passport to Learning.

A measurable improvement in exam results

In January 2016, we published a report by a team of economists from Pro Bono Economics. This revealed that students who have taken a CREST Silver Award achieved half a grade higher on their best science GCSE result and were more likely to continue with STEM education, compared to a matched control group.

A greater impact for more disadvantaged students

The report also showed that Silver CREST students eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) saw a larger increase in their best science GCSE (two-thirds of a grade) compared to a matched control group who were also eligible for FSM.

Students who were eligible for Free School Meals and took part in a CREST Silver Award were 38% more likely to take a STEM subject at AS Level than the matched control group.

A positive shift in attitudes

In 2011, a study from the University of Liverpool concluded that CREST has a strong positive impact on students’ attitudes towards Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) and aspirations for SET careers are significantly improved.

A report into the CREST Expansion Scheme showed that three-quarters of participating students and 78% of teachers rated CREST as good or very good. About half the CREST student cohort reported a positive shift in attitudes toward STEM and STEM careers as a result of participation in CREST. Many of those whose attitudes did not change were already positive about STEM.

CREST Expansion Scheme 2009-2011 ‘What has been the impact on schools, teachers and students?’ A Susie Fisher Group research report for the British Science Association

Chris Conheeny

Tapton School

My Stem Club were assessed for their Bronze Award and had so much pride when they got it! The assessor was impressed at the skills they had learned in communication and facing challenges. The whole experience is so valuable!

CREST teacher

It’s helped the self-esteem for some low achievers for whom it is their major achievement in school.